The overall situation that surrounded YGB’s beneficiary communities has been very harsh during the reporting period, with the devastating effects of the pandemic and Cyclone Yaas stripping away livelihood opportunities for almost every family. Most parents were initially opposed to their daughters’ continuing their education, as they needed them to help with farm work and domestic duties, or, get married. In spite of these uncommonly challenging circumstances, by the time schools reopened in February, 2022, NISHTHA’S outreach groups were able to convince 92% of the girls’ families to keep them engaged with their education! This is exceptional feat, and YGB and NISHTHA are grateful the community leaders, and their unrelenting efforts in educating parents and teachers of the importance of girls’ education and urging them to support the girls.
Throughout the course of Project SHE, progress reports for each students are maintained in order to track their attendance, retention and progress. Extra attention is turned towards students who struggle with learning. Outreach to their parents and teachers, as well as frequent conversations with them informed them why it was so important to encourage and support their daughters’ education. This effort proved to be strongly impactful to their academic success, with all of the girls passing their Class XII Higher Secondary Board Exams with flying colors.
These girls, who are raised in dire conditions of rural conservatism and deprivation, have become aware of opportunities available to them that they previously may have only dreamed of. The impressive academic marks they have earned are not merely a numbers; the obstacles – both internal and external – that these girls have overcome are truly remarkable and inspiring. We are proud to share that Project SHE’s goal of ensuring higher education through to at least the graduation level is very successful. This education is the springboard from which they can confidently embrace future challenges and opportunities as independent young women.
YGB and NISHTHA remain committed to uplifting girls and women through formal and community education, and to protecting them from trafficking, abuse, and torture. Come back here for more updates on our SHE and other critical programs!
